India Mandates Pre-Installed Cybersecurity App on Smartphones, Threatening Apple’s Market Position
India has ordered smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the government's Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all new devices within 90 days. The directive, issued on November 28, applies to major players like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi, which dominate India's 1.2 billion-subscriber market. Non-compliance risks losing access to one of the world's fastest-growing consumer bases.
Apple faces particular vulnerability—its Indian operations now account for 14% of global iPhone production. The unremovable app, designed to combat IMEI-related fraud, could disrupt Apple's privacy-focused branding. Manufacturers must also push the app via software updates to existing devices in supply chains.
Privacy advocates decry the MOVE as overreach, while telecom authorities insist it's necessary to prevent network misuse. The mandate may accelerate diversification of manufacturing hubs beyond India amid tightening tech regulations.
